Automation PLC Engineer

Overview

Working at Knobelsdorff — we build state-of-the-art projects and meaningful careers. As a leading turnkey specialty contractor in Automation, Electric, Energy, and Power Services, our team tackles challenging projects across various industries, including industrial electrical installations, advanced automation systems, and renewable energy solutions.

Since our founding as a family-owned company in 1988, we have grown while staying true to our core values. If you’re ready to join a team where your voice matters, your growth is supported, and your impact is celebrated, Knobelsdorff (KE) is the place for you.

This role supports the Automation division by leading and executing control system design, programming, and commissioning on automation projects. You’ll deliver reliable, scalable, and well-documented industrial control solutions that directly impact customer success and project outcomes. Success means meeting project requirements with technical excellence and clear communication, while upholding KE’s commitment to Safety, People, Passion, and Performance. If you thrive in a fast-moving environment and take pride in doing things the right way, this position is built for you.

You’ll be part of a team that gets things done, works with purpose, and takes pride in the results. Your day-to-day responsibilities may include:

• Technically lead automation projects from conception to completion, ensuring adherence to timelines and budgetary constraints.
• Provide detailed design of industrial control systems including control panel design, networking design, and field device specification.
• Interpret P&, Process Flows, Specifications, and other system design documentation to use as the basis of control system design and programming.
• Create I/O lists, specifications, test procedures, FDS manuals, and other project documentation as needed.
• Create and document control system PLC/HMI/SCADA programs using modular and reusable programming techniques.
• Configure and program control system devices such as managed Ethernet switches, protocol converters, VFDs, and other controllers.
• Provide on-site control system start-up and commissioning.
• Assist technicians with field modifications as needed.
• Participate in client meetings to define scope and functional and operational requirements of the PLC/HMI/SCADA system.
• Provide technical assistance to field technicians on PLC/HMI/SCADA programs.
• Troubleshoot, test, and analyze existing project program errors and revise programs to operational order.
• Work independently and as part of a team on multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proven ability to develop professionally through direct mentorship and personally sourced academics.
• Ability to stay aware of industry best practices and emerging technological developments.
• Effectively communicate with clients, vendors, and internal teams.
• Excellent critical thinking skills supporting sound technical solutions to complex problems.
• Strong verbal, written and presentation skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.

What You Bring

You’re someone who shows up ready to work hard, learn fast, and contribute to a team that takes pride in doing things right. Successful candidates typically bring:

• 5+ years’ programming experience with PLC/HMI/SCADA applications.
• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, computer science, or equivalent education/experience.
• Detailed knowledge of industrial control systems, motor control, and field instrumentation.
• Highly proficient at creating complete PLC programs using RSLogix 5000, Factory Talk View SE, and the Rockwell portfolio suite.
• Experience with Step 7 and TIA Portal is beneficial.
• Experience with HMI/SCADA screens, preferably using Ignition, Factory Talk View, or Wonderware.
• Working knowledge of Ethernet/IP industrial communication protocol.
• Experience with Modbus TCP, Modbus Serial, Profibus, Profinet, Control Net, Ethernet and Device Net is also beneficial.
• Knowledge of scripting languages and databases.
• Time management skills and ability to meet deadlines.
• Proven communication, organizational, interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
• Work occasional start-ups which…